Microorganisms and Their Characteristics

Flashcards covering key concepts related to microorganisms, including their characteristics, reproduction, and interactions with the environment.

Virus

A small infectious agent that can only replicate inside the living cells of an organism; composed of RNA or DNA and a protein coat.

Prion

Infectious agent composed solely of protein, lacking genetic material, and resistant to heat.

Viroid

A plant pathogen composed of a short strand of RNA, lacking a protein coat and affecting crops only.

Prokaryotes

The smallest living organisms, single-celled entities that lack a nucleus, including bacteria and archaea.

Heterotroph

An organism that absorbs nutrients from its environment; cannot produce its own food.

Autotroph

An organism that can produce its own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis.

Binary fission

A form of asexual reproduction in prokaryotes where a cell divides into two identical cells.

Conjugation

A process where two prokaryotic cells exchange genetic material through a connection formed by sex pili.

Biofilm

A thin layer of slime produced by bacteria that allow them to adhere to surfaces.

Endospore

A resistant structure formed by some bacteria in response to harsh environmental conditions.

Gram stain

A method of staining bacteria that differentiates them based on the structure of their cell walls; Gram-positive bacteria appear purple, and Gram-negative bacteria appear red/pink.

Anthrax

A serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which can be transmitted through inhalation, cutaneous, or gastrointestinal routes.

SARS-COV-2

The virus responsible for COVID-19, notable for containing RNA as its genetic material.

Protists

Eukaryotic microorganisms that can be animal-like, plant-like, or fungi-like, exhibiting great diversity in forms and functions.